Honoring Susan Chihambakwe

Susan Chihambakwe, one of our beloved members of BNCLT, passed away on May 25, 2026. In addition to being among our residents, Susan served as a Board member of BNCLT for 6 years. She had been a stalworth community leader in Dorchester and Roxbury, and a champion of affordable housing and tenant protection. She gave countless hours to advocacy for her neighbors to support their long-term quality of life and well-being. Susan built important friendships with people in her community,  and BNCLT feels this loss profoundly, as her presence, kindness, and leadership impacted so many lives around her.

If you would like to join us to celebrate Susan’s life on Sunday, August 23 at 2pm, please register here.

More about Susan, excerpted from her obituary:  

Born in Masvingo Zimbabwe, Susan was the beloved daughter of Simplisius Julius Chihambakwe and the late Otilia Chihambakwe. Susan will always be remembered as a supportive daughter, sister and friend. Her kindness, compassion, and presence touched the lives of those around her and will be cherished and remembered always.

Susan attended high school at Dominican Convent in Zimbabwe, before moving to further her studies and pursue her passion in fashion designing in the United States in August 1990. She attended Massachusetts College of Art and Design where she received multiple awards and grants for her work. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Art Designing on 24th May, 1995. Following this, she held many fashion shows and events, as well as designed pieces for celebrities.

She was working as an administrator at Beth Israel Hospital, where she was known for her dedication and warmth. Susan also served on the board of directors for the Boston Neighborhood Community Land Trust, tirelessly advocating for low income families and ensuring their voices were heard. Her commitment to community uplift was fierce and unwavering.

A gifted artist at heart, Susan loved fashion, jewelry design, and creating pieces that brought joy to others. Above all, she cherished every moment spent with her loving and devoted family and friends.

Susan’s life was defined by compassion, resilience, and generosity. She was an independent thinker who challenged the status quo and blazed her own trail. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.